Convertible cushion system

ABSTRACT

In one aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a convertible cushion system including a pillow portion configured to detachably couple with a retaining portion in an assembled state. The pillow portion generally includes a base pillow portion configured to releasably attach to a portion of the retaining portion; and the retaining portion includes a retaining cushion having first and second opposed ends and at least first and second opposed faces, at least one adjustable strap having first and second opposed ends, the at least one adjustable strap disposed on the first face of the retaining cushion and configured to secure the retaining cushion around a user, and a connecting mechanism for detachably connecting portions of the at least one adjustable strap to create a loop. Also provided herein are methods for making and using the disclosed devices and systems.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/180,332 filed on Feb. 19, 2021, which claims the benefit of priorityto U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/978,406 filed Feb. 19, 2020,which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

It is intended that the above-referenced application may be applicableto the concepts and embodiments disclosed herein, even if such conceptsand embodiments are disclosed in the referenced applications withdifferent limitations and configurations and described using differentexamples and terminology.

FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to devices and systems for cushioning,and more specifically, to convertible cushion systems and devices.

BACKGROUND

Public transportation such as trains, buses, or aircraft often providepassenger seats that face an encumbrance such as a seat back or abulkhead. This arrangement can be uncomfortable for passengers if thespace (i.e., “leg room”) between the passenger seat and the encumbranceis not long enough for a passenger to sit without contacting theencumbrance with a part of their legs or feet. Such an arrangement maybe particularly uncomfortable for passengers with longer legs thanaverage passengers who may have difficulty keeping their kneessubstantially together. When a tall passenger opens their legs whileseating, their legs may extend into an aisle area or an adjacentpassenger. Accordingly, a portable, convertible and convenientcushioning device is needed. This need and other needs are satisfied bythe various aspects of the present disclosure.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the purposes of the invention, as embodied andbroadly described herein, the invention, in one aspect, relates todevices and systems for cushioning, such as, for example, to enhancecomfort during travel. In another aspect, the present disclosure relatesto a convertible cushion system comprising a pillow portion configuredto detachably couple with a retaining portion in an assembled or compactstate. In further aspects, the retaining portion comprises a retainingcushion, at least one strap portion, wherein the at least one strapportion is adjustable in length, a connecting mechanism or deviceconfigured to connect and disconnect portions of the at least one strapportion. In still further aspects, the connecting device is furtherconfigured to allow adjustment of the length of the at least one strapportion.

In another aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to aconvertible cushion system comprising: a pillow portion operative toconnect to legs of a user, the pillow portion comprising: at least onesurface; and a retaining portion operative to secure the cushion portionbetween legs of the user, the retaining portion comprising: a retainingcushion, a plurality of retaining straps operative to secure distal endsof the retaining cushion, at least one strap portion, wherein the atleast one strap portion is adjustable in length, a connecting deviceconfigured to connect and disconnect portions of the strap portion,wherein the connecting device is further configured to adjust the lengthof the at least one strap portion. In further aspect, the system mayinclude one or more securing mechanisms, such as, for example, a band orelastic strap, for securing one or both ends of the at least oneadjustable strap to or against a face of the retaining cushion.

In another aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to amethod for converting a convertible cushion system from an assembledstate, to a retaining state, the method comprising: providing aconvertible cushion system comprising: providing a pillow portion,securing a retaining portion around the pillow portion comprising:connecting, via at least one strap portion and a connecting device, aretaining cushion around the pillow portion; disconnecting the retainingportion from the pillow portion; arranging the pillow portion betweenthe legs such that a first base portion and a second base portion of thepillow portion contacts an inner portion of the legs; arranging theretaining portion around the pillow portion such that the retainingcushion contacts the pillow portion and the legs of the user; andconnecting, via a connecting device, a first end of the at least onestrap portion to a second end of the at least one strap portion to forma substantially continuous loop such that the legs of the user aresecured in a desired position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this disclosure, illustrate various embodiments of the presentdisclosure. The drawings contain representations of various trademarksand copyrights owned by the Applicant. In addition, the drawings maycontain other marks owned by third parties and are being used forillustrative purposes only. All rights to various trademarks andcopyrights represented herein, except those belonging to theirrespective owners, are vested in and the property of the Applicant. TheApplicant retains and reserves all rights in its trademarks andcopyrights included herein, and grants permission to reproduce thematerial only in connection with reproduction of the granted patent andfor no other purpose.

Furthermore, the drawings may contain text or captions that may explaincertain embodiments of the present disclosure. This text is included forillustrative, non-limiting, explanatory purposes of certain embodimentsdetailed in the present disclosure. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates a planar view of an embodiment of a convertiblecushion system;

FIG. 2 illustrates a planar view of the convertible cushion systemarranged on the legs of a user;

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the convertible cushion system;

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the convertible cushion system;

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the pillow portion;

FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of the convertible cushion system;

FIG. 7 illustrates a planar view of the convertible cushion systemarranged about the legs of a user;

FIG. 8 illustrates a planar view of the convertible cushion system inoperation;

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the convertible cushion system in afolded arrangement;

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the convertible cushion system in afolded arrangement;

FIG. 11 illustrates a planar view of the convertible cushion system inan arrangement about a neck of a user;

FIG. 12 illustrates a planar view of an embodiment of the convertiblecushion system;

FIG. 13 illustrates a planar view of an embodiment of the convertiblecushion system;

FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the convertiblecushion system;

FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the convertiblecushion system; and

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of theconvertible cushion system.

BRIEF OVERVIEW

This brief overview is provided to introduce a selection of concepts ina simplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This brief overview is not intended to identify keyfeatures or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor isthis brief overview intended to be used to limit the claimed subjectmatter's scope.

As discussed above, when passengers are sitting in a seat on a publictransportation system, they often have limited leg room. Such a problemmay be often seen on aircraft when a passenger in a seat falls asleepand loses control of their legs, which allows their legs to spread apartand crowd other passengers.

Another challenge for passengers in public transportation is when thespace between the seat and an object in front of the seat (leg room),such as, a seat back or bulkhead is short or confining. Without enoughlegroom many passengers' legs or feet contact the object facing theseat, which may be painful and uncomfortable.

In this regard, one problem may include passenger legs that naturallywant to swing out wide to either direction when seated—causing unwantedcontact with other passengers' legs, or, if the individual is sitting inthe isle, risk that one's knee will get hit by another passenger orfood/beverage cart that is traveling down the aisle (especially whilesleeping). Alternatively, trying to solve this problem naturally byusing one's leg muscles to constantly “hold” one's legs closer togetheras to not swing too wide can be very uncomfortable—especially on verylong flights.

In further aspects, another problem may include passenger legs that areso long that the knees hit up against the back of the seat in front ofthem. This causes significant discomfort. In various aspects, exemplaryembodiments disclosed herein can include a wearable and adjustabletravel accessory system with a retaining cushion detachably coupled witha base pillow having a foam core and fabric exterior (similar to that ofa travel neck pillow) that solves the above problems as discussed below.

Embodiments directed to the problems described above can wrap around auser's thighs, just above the knees, and thus allows for the legs to becomfortably constrained, and only swing out to the sides based on thespace allowed by the circumference of the retaining portion, like apadded belt. As with a belt, embodiments of the present invention can beadjusted to where one's thighs/knees can be (1) all the way together(both knees and inner thighs touching), (2) all the way together butwith a pillow, such as a memory foam “round pillow”, in between thethighs for substantially 360-degree comfort, and/or (3) at varyingwidths apart based on adjusting one or both of the adjusting mechanismsfor length of the retaining cushion portion. Regarding theaforementioned item (2), the pillow may be secured to the underside ofthe retaining portion or cushion by a snap or hook and loop fastener orother attachment device.

In further aspects, the retaining portion may be used to wrap around theneck and/or forehead of a user. These embodiments can assist inproviding head and/or neck support when a user is leaning and/or restingagainst another surface.

Embodiments of the retaining portion or retaining cushion can be pusheddown to where it is covering the actual tops of the knees (or just belowthe knees) to provide a cushion between the knees and the uncomfortableback of the seat in front. The functionality to comfortably “constrain”the thighs/knees from spreading to either side continues in thisposition as well.

While embodiments may be described in the context of traveling and/ortransportation-related solutions, the present disclosure is not limitedto these aspects, and may be used in any situation when securing one'slegs and/or neck is desired, or when sitting down for any extendedperiod of time.

Both the foregoing brief overview and the following detailed descriptionprovide examples and are explanatory only. Accordingly, the foregoingbrief overview and the following detailed description should not beconsidered to be restrictive. Further, features or variations may beprovided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, embodimentsmay be directed to various feature combinations and sub-combinationsdescribed in the detailed description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one havingordinary skill in the relevant art that the present disclosure has broadutility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment mayincorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects ofthe disclosure and may further incorporate only one or a plurality ofthe above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed andidentified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best modecontemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present disclosure.Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrativepurposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure. Moreover, manyembodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, andequivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodimentsdescribed herein and fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Accordingly, while embodiments are described herein in detail inrelation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that thisdisclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure andare made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enablingdisclosure. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments isnot intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patentprotection afforded in any claim of a patent issuing here from, whichscope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It isnot intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by readinginto any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appearin the claim itself.

Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps ofvarious processes or methods that are described herein are illustrativeand not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, althoughsteps of various processes or methods may be shown and described asbeing in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processesor methods are not limited to being carried out in any particularsequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps insuch processes or methods generally may be carried out in variousdifferent sequences and orders while still falling within the scope ofthe present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope ofpatent protection is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather thanthe description set forth herein.

Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refersto that which an ordinary artisan would understand such term to meanbased on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that themeaning of a term used herein—as understood by the ordinary artisanbased on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from anyparticular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that themeaning of the term as understood by the ordinary artisan shouldprevail. As used in the specification and in the claims, the term“comprising” can include the aspects “consisting of” and “consistingessentially of.” In this specification and in the claims, which follow,reference will be made to a number of terms which shall be definedherein.

Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6, no claim element isintended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unlessthe explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in suchclaim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to applyin the interpretation of such claim element.

Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an”each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a pluralityunless the contextual use dictates otherwise. When used herein to join alist of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does notexclude a plurality of items of the list. Finally, when used herein tojoin a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list”.Ranges can be expressed herein as from one particular value, and/or toanother particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspectincludes from the one particular value and/or to the other particularvalue. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use ofthe antecedent ‘about,’ it will be understood that the particular valueforms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpointsof each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the otherendpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. It is also understoodthat there are a number of values disclosed herein, and that each valueis also herein disclosed as “about” that particular value in addition tothe value itself. For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then“about 10” is also disclosed. It is also understood that each unitbetween two particular units are also disclosed. For example, if 10 and15 are disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed.

As used herein, the terms “about” and “at or about” mean that the amountor value in question can be the value designated some other valueapproximately or about the same. It is generally understood, as usedherein, that it is the nominal value indicated ±10% variation unlessotherwise indicated or inferred. The term is intended to convey thatsimilar values promote equivalent results or effects recited in theclaims. That is, it is understood that amounts, sizes, formulations,parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and neednot be exact, but can be approximate and/or larger or smaller, asdesired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off,measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those ofskill in the art. In general, an amount, size, formulation, parameter orother quantity or characteristic is “about” or “approximate” whether ornot expressly stated to be such. It is understood that where “about” isused before a quantitative value, the parameter also includes thespecific quantitative value itself, unless specifically statedotherwise.

The terms “first,” “second,” “first part,” “second part,” and the like,where used herein, do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, andare used to distinguish one element from another, unless specificallystated otherwise.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” means that thesubsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur, andthat the description includes instances where said event or circumstanceoccurs and instances where it does not. For example, the phrase“optionally affixed to the surface” means that it can or cannot be fixedto a surface.

As used herein, the terms “surface” and “face” mean the outermost layeror uppermost boundary of an object or element. Thus, for example,reference to a cube would include three-dimensional objects bounded bysix square faces or surfaces.

Disclosed are the materials, components, parts, and/or elements to beused to manufacture the disclosed devices and systems of the inventionas well as the materials themselves to be used within the methodsdisclosed herein. These and other materials are disclosed herein, and itis understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups,etc. of these materials are disclosed that while specific reference ofeach various individual and collective combinations and permutation ofthese materials cannot be explicitly disclosed, each is specificallycontemplated and described herein. For example, if a particular materialis disclosed and discussed and a number of modifications that can bemade to the materials are discussed, specifically contemplated is eachand every combination and permutation of the material and themodifications that are possible unless specifically indicated to thecontrary. Thus, if a class of materials A, B, and C are disclosed aswell as a class of materials D, E, and F and an example of a combinationmaterial, A-D is disclosed, then even if each is not individuallyrecited each is individually and collectively contemplated meaningcombinations, A-E, A-F, B-D, B-E, B-F, C-D, C-E, and C-F are considereddisclosed. Likewise, any subset or combination of these is alsodisclosed. Thus, for example, the sub-group of A-E, B-F, and C-E wouldbe considered disclosed. This concept applies to all aspects of thisapplication including, but not limited to, steps in methods of makingand using the articles and devices of the invention. Thus, if there area variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understoodthat each of these additional steps can be performed with any specificaspect or combination of aspects of the methods of the invention.

It is understood that the devices and systems disclosed herein havecertain functions. Disclosed herein are certain structural requirementsfor performing the disclosed functions, and it is understood that thereare a variety of structures that can perform the same function that arerelated to the disclosed structures, and that these structures willtypically achieve the same result. Furthermore, the invention of presentdisclosure may be referred to herein as a device, apparatus, system,cushion, pillow, and methods for making and using the invention.

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings.Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawingsand the following description to refer to the same or similar elements.While many embodiments of the disclosure may be described,modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. Forexample, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to theelements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described hereinmay be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to thedisclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description doesnot limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure isdefined by the appended claims. The present disclosure contains headers.It should be understood that these headers are used as references andare not to be construed as limiting upon the subjected matter disclosedunder the header.

The present disclosure includes many aspects and features. Moreover,while many aspects and features relate to, and are described in, thecontext of a convertible cushion system, embodiments of the presentdisclosure are not limited to use only in this context.

In some public transportation vehicles such as, for example, aircraft,trains, and busses, the spacing (i.e., “leg room”) between the seats andencumbrances facing the seat is too short to allow passengers to sitcomfortably without touching the encumbrance with their knees, shins, orother parts of the legs or feet. The exemplary illustrated embodimentsdescribed herein includes a convertible cushion system that increasespassenger comfort by allowing the user to use a cushion and straparrangement to hold the legs of the passenger in a desired position. Thedevice and system may also provide other comfort for a traveler by beingused around the neck or the head to support the head, or to providepadding for the head to rest on a substantially firm surface.

In various aspects, the present disclosure provides a convertible,multi-part cushion system that can be assembled and disassembled. In afurther aspect, the system may include a base pillow or pillow portionconfigured to detachably couple with a retaining portion or cushion inan assembled state. The base pillow portion comprises at least one face(which may also be referred to herein as a “surface”), for example, atop face, an opposed bottom face, and at least one side face connectingthe top and bottom faces. The base pillow portion may be configured toreleasably attach to a portion of the retaining portion. The retainingportion may include a retaining cushion having first and second opposedends and at least one face or surface, for example, a first face and asecond opposed face. In still further aspects, the retaining portion mayfurther comprise at least one adjustable strap having first and secondopposed ends, said adjustable strap being disposed on a face or surfaceof the retaining cushion and configured to secure the retaining cushionaround an object or user, and a connecting mechanism for detachablyconnecting portions of the adjustable strap to create a loop.

According to various further aspects of the invention, the devices,systems, and methods of the present disclosure can comprise multipleconfigurations. FIGS. 1-16 illustrate non-limiting examples ofembodiments of operating environments, mechanisms, and components forthe disclosed devices and systems. Although the operating environments,mechanisms, and components are disclosed with specific functionality, itshould be understood that functionality may be shared between mechanismsand/or components, with some functions split between mechanisms and/orcomponents, while other functions duplicated by the mechanisms and/orcomponents. Furthermore, the name of the mechanisms, parts and/orcomponents should not be construed as limiting upon the functionality ofthe mechanisms, parts and/or components. Moreover, each stage in theclaim language can be considered independently without the context ofthe other stages. Each stage may contain language defined in otherportions of this specifications. Each stage disclosed for one mechanism,part and/or component may be mixed with the operational stages ofanother mechanism, part and/or component. Each stage can be claimed onits own and/or interchangeably with other stages of other mechanisms,parts and/or components.

FIG. 1 illustrates a planar view of an embodiment of a convertiblecushion system 100 in accordance with the present invention. In FIG. 1,the convertible cushion system 100 is shown in a compact arrangement(“assembled state” or “compact state”) that allows the convertiblecushion system 100 to be used as a head pillow to rest a head of a userwhile traveling. For example, if the traveler desires to nap on thefloor at the airport, or perhaps while on the plane, the user may placethe convertible cushion system 100 on a tray table or other object torest their head. The convertible cushion system 100 in this compactarrangement allows it to be carried, stowed, or stored in a convenientplace. The convertible cushion system 100 includes a pillow portion 102and a retaining portion 104. In various embodiments, in the compact orassembled arrangement, retaining portion 104 may be removably attachedto pillow portion 102, where retaining portion is configured to becoupled around the side face of pillow portion using the adjustablestrap and connecting device, as shown in FIG. 1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the pillow portion 102 includes asubstantially cylindrical shaped base pillow or base pillow portion 106having a top face, an opposed bottom face, and a circular side faceconnecting the top and bottom faces. Base pillow portion 106 includes acorrespondingly shaped and dimensioned deformable cover portion andfilling (not shown) such as, for example, foam, a memory foam, wovenmaterials, synthetic stuffing materials or organic stuffing materials.In some embodiments, pillow portion 102 may comprise a plurality of basepillow portions, such as a first base portion, a second base portion,and/or a middle portion. To this end, the retaining portion may beconfigured to be coupled around the plurality of base pillow portionsusing the adjustable strap and connecting mechanism, thereby retainingeach of the base pillow portions therein.

Retaining portion 104 generally includes retaining cushion 105, whichhas first and second opposed ends and first and second opposed faces, anadjustable strap portion 108, which has first and second opposed ends,strap portion 108 being disposed on the outer face of a retainingcushion 105 and configured to assist in securing retaining cushion 105around pillow portion 102 or a user, such as user legs 202; andconnecting mechanism or device 110 for detachably connecting opposedportions of adjustable strap portion 108 to create a loop. To this end,retaining portion 104 is arranged around the pillow portion 102 suchthat the inner face of retaining cushion 105 contacts the side face ofbase pillow portion 106 of the pillow portion 102. Strap portion 108 isadjustable in length to fit around objects having varying diameters.Connecting device 110 may include, for example, a buckle, hook and loopfasteners, or another suitable device, mechanism or arrangement toconnect and disconnect portions of the strap portion 108. The connectingdevice 110 may be used to adjust the length of the strap portion 108 andto connect portions of the strap portion 108 to form a substantiallycontinuous loop. The connecting device 110 may be opened or disconnectedto disconnect the portions of the strap portion 108.

It is noted that retaining cushion 104 and/or pillow portion 102 may bemade from a plurality of materials such as, but not limited to, thefollowing: a memory foam, an inflatable material, a synthetic fiber, apolyester material, an antimicrobial material, a closed cell foam, aplurality of feathers/feather-like materials, and any suitable pillowand/or cushion-appropriate material.

It is further noted that the shape of retaining cushion 104 and/orpillow portion 102 may be made into and/or formed to a plurality ofshapes such as, but not limited to, the following: substantiallytriangular, substantially rectangular, substantially cylindrical,substantially spherical, substantially diamond-shaped, substantiallyelliptical-shaped, substantially conical, amorphous and/or anycombination of the aforementioned shapes. In some embodiments, pillowportion 102 and/or retaining cushion 104 may further be configured to behollow and/or comprise at least one aperture disposed at any part ofpillow portion 102 and/or retaining cushion 104.

It is further noted that when describing and/or discussing retainingcushion 104 and/or pillow portion 102, “face,” “surface,” and iterationsthereof (e.g., “at least one surface,” “a first face,” a second face,”“a third face”) may be used interchangeably.

FIG. 2 illustrates a planar view of an alternative arrangement of theconvertible cushion system 100 arranged on the legs 202 of a user, i.e.,in a leg retaining state. In this regard, the retaining portion 104 isarranged about the legs 202 and the strap portion 108 is secured by theconnecting device 110 to form a continuous loop around the legs 202.

The pillow portion 102 as arranged between the legs 202 is rotated 90degrees relative to the orientation in the compact arrangement such thatthe top and bottom faces of base pillow portion 106 contacts the innerportions of the legs 202. The pillow portion 102 in the illustratedembodiment may provide cushioning between the legs, and the retainingportion 104 may impede the legs from moving apart.

In various embodiments, convertible cushion system 100 may includeattachment region 404, which may include an attachment mechanism, forexample, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, or buttons, configured forremovably attaching pillow portion 102 to the retaining portion 104 invarious orientations without the use of strap portion 108. Attachmentregion 404 may include two corresponding attachment regions, forexample, a retaining portion attachment region 404 a configured tooperative to cooperatively engage a corresponding attachment region 404b disposed on a portion of the pillow portion 102.

As illustrated embodiment in FIG. 2, retaining portion 104 can include asecuring mechanism, such as elastic strap 204, that may be used toretain items such as, for example a mobile phone and/or other portabledevices.

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the convertible cushion system 100 inan unassembled state, where pillow portion 102 is separated from theretaining cushion 104.

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of retaining portion 104 of theconvertible cushion system 100. The retaining portion 104 may includeretaining straps 402 that may use, for example, snaps, buttons, or hookand loop fasteners to secure distal ends of the retaining cushion 105 ina folded arrangement. Such an arrangement may allow users to adjust thelength of the retaining cushion 105 to allow a comfortable arrangementfor the user and accommodate objects of varying diameters. Retainingportion 104 can include attachment region 404 a disposed on a bottom orunderside face of retaining cushion 105, which may include an attachmentmechanism, for example, a hook and loop fastener, buttons, or snaps.Attachment region 404 a may be operative to engage a cooperativeattachment mechanism on corresponding attachment region 404 b disposedon a portion of the base pillow portion 106. In this regard, FIG. 5illustrates a side view of the base pillow portion 106 with attachmentregion 404 b that may be operative to engage and be retained by theattachment region 404 a.

FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of retaining portion 104 of convertiblecushion system 100, with straps 402 shown in an open position to allowfor adjusting the length of retaining cushion 105. FIGS. 7 and 8illustrate planar views of retaining portion 104 of convertible cushionsystem 100 arranged about the legs 202 of a user. The pillow portion 102is omitted, as shown by the space 714 between the legs 202 of user, andmay be optionally used by a user in a different location. FIGS. 9 and 10illustrate a top view and a side view of retaining portion 104 ofconvertible cushion system 100 in a folded arrangement. FIG. 11illustrates a planar view of retaining portion 104 of convertiblecushion system 100 in an arrangement about the neck of a user. Thearrangement in FIG. 11 provides support for the head of a user. Theconvertible cushion system 100 may also be arranged about the head, suchas around the forehead, of a user to provide comfort when resting.

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate a various view of another embodiment of aconvertible cushion system 1200 in accordance with the presentdisclosure. In FIG. 12, the convertible cushion system 1200 is shown ina compact arrangement that allows the convertible cushion system 1200 tobe used as a head pillow to rest a head of a user while traveling. Forexample, if the traveler desires to nap on the floor at the airport, orperhaps while on the plane, the user may place the convertible cushionsystem 1200 on a tray table or other object to rest their head. Theconvertible cushion system 1200 in this compact arrangement allows it tobe carried, stowed, or stored in a convenient place. The convertiblecushion system 1200 includes a base pillow or pillow portion 1202 and aretaining cushion 1204.

In the illustrated embodiment, the pillow portion 1202 generallycomprises a deformable, substantially cylindrical shaped pillow filledwith a cushioning material (not shown) such as, for example, foam, amemory foam, woven materials, synthetic stuffing materials or organicstuffing materials.

The retaining cushion 1204 is arranged around the pillow portion 1202such that the retaining cushion contacts the pillow portion 1202. Theretaining cushion 1204 includes an adjustable strap 1208 that isadjustable in length. The retaining portion 1202 includes a connectingdevice 1210 that may include, for example, a buckle, hook and loopfasteners, or another suitable device or arrangement to connect anddisconnect portions of the strap portion 1208. The connecting device maybe used to adjust the length of the strap portion 1208 and to connectportions of the strap portion 1208 to form a substantially continuousloop. The connecting device 1210 may be opened or disconnected todisconnect the portions of the strap portion 1208.

FIG. 13 illustrates another view of the convertible cushion system 1200arranged to be secured around the legs of a user. In this regard, theretaining cushion 1204 is configured to be arranged about the legs usingstrap portion 1208 secured by the connecting device 1210 to form acontinuous loop around legs. The pillow portion 1202. as configured inFIG. 13, is oriented and arranged to be placed between legs such thatpillow portion 1202 contacts the inner portion of legs. The pillowportion 1202 in the illustrated embodiment provides cushioning betweenthe legs, and the retaining cushion 1204 impedes the legs from movingapart. The pillow portion 1202, while shown attached, is removablyattached from the retaining cushion 1204 by, for example, hook and loopfasteners, snaps, or buttons.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of the convertible cushion system 1200arranged in a separated position. In some embodiments, the outer face ofretaining cushion 1204 may comprise at least one middle sleeve 1212. Infurther embodiments, the outer face retaining cushion 1204 may comprisea plurality of outer sleeves 1214. The plurality of sleeves may be usedto assist in securing and/or guiding strap portion 1208 around retainingcushion 1204.

FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of the convertible cushion system 100arranged in a separated position. In some embodiments, the outer face ofretaining cushion 105 may comprise at least one middle sleeve 112. Infurther embodiments, the outer face retaining cushion 105 may comprise aplurality of outer sleeves 114. The plurality of sleeves may be used toassist in securing and/or guiding strap portion 108 around retainingcushion 105.

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the convertible cushion system100. FIG. 16 further illustrates strap portion 108 being guided throughouter sleeve 114.

While the specification includes examples, the disclosure's scope isindicated by the following claims. Furthermore, while the specificationhas been described in language specific to structural features and/ormethodological acts, the claims are not limited to the features or actsdescribed above. Rather, the specific features and acts described aboveare disclosed as example for embodiments of the disclosure.

Aspects

The present invention includes at least the following aspects:

Aspect 1: A convertible cushion system comprising: a pillow portionconfigured to detachably couple with a retaining portion in an assembledstate, the pillow portion comprising: a base pillow portion including atop face, an opposed bottom face, and at least one side face connectingthe top and bottom faces, the base pillow portion configured toreleasably attach to a portion of the retaining portion; and theretaining portion comprising: a retaining cushion having first andsecond opposed ends and at least first and second opposed faces, anadjustable strap having first and second opposed ends, the adjustablestrap disposed on the first face of the retaining cushion and configuredto secure the retaining cushion around an object or user, and aconnecting mechanism for detachably connecting portions of theadjustable strap to create a loop.

Aspect 2: A convertible cushion system comprising a pillow portionconfigured to detachably couple with a retaining portion in an assembledstate, the pillow portion comprising: a base pillow portion including atleast one face or surface, such as, for example, a top face or surface,an opposed bottom face or surface, and at least one side face or surfaceconnecting the top and bottom, the base pillow portion configured toreleasably attach to a portion of the retaining portion; and theretaining portion comprising: a retaining cushion having first andsecond opposed ends and at least first and second opposed faces, anadjustable strap having first and second opposed ends, the adjustablestrap disposed on the first face of the retaining cushion and configuredto secure the retaining cushion around an object or user, and aconnecting mechanism for detachably connecting portions of theadjustable strap to create a loop.

Aspect 3: A convertible cushion system comprising: a base pillow portionconfigured to detachably couple with a retaining cushion in an assembledstate, the base pillow portion including a top face, an opposed bottomface, and at least one side face connecting the top and bottom faces,the base pillow portion configured to releasably attach to a portion ofthe retaining cushion; and the retaining cushion having first and secondopposed ends and at least first and second opposed faces, and comprisingan adjustable strap having first and second opposed ends, the adjustablestrap disposed on the first face of the retaining cushion and configuredto secure the retaining cushion around an object or user, and aconnecting mechanism for detachably connecting portions of theadjustable strap to create a loop.

Aspect 4: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein in the assembled state, the second face of the retaining cushionis configured to be coupled around substantially all of the at least oneside face of the base pillow portion using the adjustable strap andconnecting mechanism.

Aspect 5: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein the system further comprises a retaining state, wherein in theretaining state the retaining portion is configured to couple aroundlegs of a user.

Aspect 6: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein in the retaining state the base pillow portion is configured toattach to the retaining portion at an orientation effective to allow thepillow to be placed between the user's legs while the retaining portionis coupled around the user's legs.

Aspect 7: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein in the retaining state the base pillow portion is configured toattach to the retaining portion at a substantially perpendicularorientation relative to the assembled state.

Aspect 8: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein in the retaining state the base pillow portion is configured toattach substantially orthogonal to the retaining portion.

Aspect 9: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein the retaining cushion comprises a folded arrangement configuredto adjust a length or thickness of the retaining cushion, or acombination thereof.

Aspect 10: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein a length of the retaining cushion is configured to be adjustedby folding one or both ends towards an interior of the retainingcushion.

Aspect 11: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein a thickness of the retaining cushion is configured to beadjusted by folding one or both ends towards an interior of theretaining cushion.

Aspect 12: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect, thefolded arrangement of the retaining cushion is maintained using one ormore straps.

Aspect 13: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein the base pillow portion comprises a three-dimensional polygon.

Aspect 14: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein the base pillow portion comprises a substantially cylindricalshape.

Aspect 15: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,further comprising an attachment mechanism configured for removablyattaching pillow portion to the retaining portion in a plurality oforientations without the use of the adjustable strap or connectingmechanism.

Aspect 16: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein the pillow portion comprises an attachment mechanism configuredto allow the base pillow portion to detachable attach to retainingcushion without the use of the adjustable strap or connecting mechanism.

Aspect 17: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein the attachment mechanism is configured to releasably attach thebase pillow portion to a portion of the retaining portion.

Aspect 18: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein the attachment mechanism comprises cooperative attachmentcomponents on at least one surface the base pillow and retainingcushion, such as, for example, the side face of the base pillow portionand the bottom face of the retaining cushion.

Aspect 19: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein the retaining portion or retaining cushion comprises a necksupporting state configured to be secured around a neck of a user.

Aspect 20: The convertible cushion system any preceding aspect, whereinin the neck supporting state, one or more retaining straps areconfigured to secure the retaining cushion such that the retainingcushion provides a desired thickness and diameter to support a neck ofthe user.

Aspect 21: The convertible cushion system of any preceding aspect,wherein in the neck supporting state, the retaining cushion isconfigured to be secured around the neck of the user via the connectingdevice.

Aspect 22: A method for using a convertible cushion system, the methodcomprising: providing the convertible cushion system of any precedingaspect; and using the convertible cushion system in connection with auser.

Aspect 23: The method of any preceding aspect, wherein using comprisesone or more of: converting the convertible cushion system from anassembled state to a retaining state; securing the retaining portionaround the pillow portion via the strap portion and a connecting device;disconnecting the retaining portion from the pillow portion; arrangingthe pillow portion between legs of a user such that the top face andbottom face of the base pillow portion each contacts an inner portion ofthe legs; securing the retaining portion around the pillow portion suchthat the underside of retaining cushion connects with the side face ofthe base pillow portion; and connecting, via the connecting device, afirst end of the strap portion to a second end of the strap portion toform a substantially continuous loop such that the legs of the user aresecured in a desired position.

Aspect 24: The method or convertible cushion system of any precedingaspect, further comprising at least one securing mechanism, such as, forexample, a band, belt, elastic strap or the like, for securing an objectto or against the retaining portion or retaining cushion.

Aspect 25: The method or convertible cushion system of any precedingaspect, further comprising a securing mechanism for securing an objectagainst or to a face or surface of the retaining portion or retainingcushion.

Aspect 26: The method or convertible cushion system of any precedingaspect, further comprising a securing mechanism for securing an objectagainst or to a top and/or bottom face or surface of the retainingportion or retaining cushion.

Aspect 27: The method or convertible cushion system of any precedingaspect, wherein the securing mechanism comprises a band, belt, elasticstrap or like element for securing a mobile device.

Aspect 28: The method or convertible cushion system of any precedingaspect, wherein the securing mechanism comprises a band, belt, elasticstrap or like element for securing the at least one adjustable strap.

Aspect 29: The method or convertible cushion system of any precedingaspect, further comprising a plurality of securing mechanisms forsecuring first and second ends of the at least one adjustable strap.

While aspects of the present invention can be described and claimed in aparticular statutory class, such as the system statutory class, this isfor convenience only and one of skill in the art will understand thateach aspect of the present invention can be described and claimed in anystatutory class. Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no wayintended that any method or aspect set forth herein be construed asrequiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly,where a method claim does not specifically state in the claims ordescriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it isno way appreciably intended that an order be inferred, in any respect.This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation,including matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps oroperational flow, plain meaning derived from grammatical organization orpunctuation, or the number or type of aspects described in thespecification.

Insofar as the description above and the accompanying drawings discloseany additional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claimsbelow, the disclosures are not dedicated to the public and the right tofile one or more applications to claims such additional disclosures isreserved.

Although very narrow claims are presented herein, it should berecognized the scope of this disclosure is much broader than presentedby the claims.

The following is claimed:
 1. A convertible cushion system comprising: apillow portion configured to detachably couple with a retaining portionin an assembled state, the pillow portion comprising a base pillowportion configured to releasably attach to a portion of the retainingportion; and the retaining portion comprising: a retaining cushionhaving first and second opposed ends and at least first and secondopposed faces, at least one adjustable strap having first and secondopposed ends, the at least one adjustable strap disposed on the firstface of the retaining cushion and configured to secure the retainingcushion around a user, and a connecting mechanism for detachablyconnecting portions of the at least one adjustable strap to create aloop.
 2. The convertible cushion system of claim 1, wherein in theassembled state, the second face of the retaining cushion is configuredto be coupled around substantially all of a side face of the base pillowportion using the at least one adjustable strap and the connectingmechanism.
 3. The convertible cushion system of claim 2, wherein theconvertible cushion system is configured to convert from the assembledstate to a retaining state, wherein in the retaining state the retainingportion is configured to couple around at least one of the following:legs of the user, a neck of the user, and a head of a user.
 4. Theconvertible cushion system of claim 3, wherein in the retaining statethe base pillow portion is configured to attach to an underside of theretaining portion at an orientation effective to allow the base pillowportion to be held between the user's legs while the retaining portionis coupled around the user's legs.
 5. The convertible cushion system ofclaim 4, wherein in the retaining state the base pillow portion isconfigured to attach substantially orthogonal to the retaining portion.6. The convertible cushion system of claim 3, wherein the retainingcushion is configured to convert between an unfolded arrangement and afolded arrangement, said folded arrangement configured to adjust alength or thickness of the retaining cushion, or a combination thereof,and wherein the length or of the retaining cushion is configured to beadjusted by folding one or both ends towards an interior of theretaining cushion.
 7. The convertible cushion system of claim 4, furthercomprising an attachment mechanism configured for removably attachingthe base pillow portion to the underside of the retaining portion in aplurality of orientations without the use of the at least one adjustablestrap or the connecting mechanism.
 8. The convertible cushion system ofclaim 7, wherein the base pillow portion comprises a substantiallycylindrical shape having a top face, an opposed bottom face, and a sideface connecting the top face and opposed bottom face.
 9. The convertiblecushion system of claim 7, wherein the retaining portion comprises aneck supporting state configured to be secured around the neck of theuser via the connecting mechanism; and wherein in the neck supportingstate, one or more retaining straps are configured to secure theretaining cushion such that the retaining cushion provides a desiredthickness and diameter to support the neck of the user.
 10. Theconvertible cushion system of claim 7, further comprising at least onesecuring mechanism for securing an object to a face of the retainingcushion.
 11. A convertible cushion system comprising: a base pillowportion configured to detachably couple with a retaining cushion in anassembled state, the base pillow portion including at least one surface,the base pillow portion further configured to releasably attach to anunderside of the retaining cushion using an attachment mechanism; andthe retaining cushion having first and second opposed ends and first andsecond opposed faces, and comprising at least one adjustable straphaving first and second opposed ends, the at least one adjustable strapdisposed on the first face of the retaining cushion and configured tosecure the retaining cushion around a user, a securing mechanism forsecuring the at least one adjustable strap against the retainingcushion, and a connecting mechanism for detachably connecting ends ofthe at least one adjustable strap to create a continuous loop, whereinthe attachment mechanism is configured for removably attaching the basepillow portion to the underside of the retaining cushion in a pluralityof orientations.
 12. The convertible cushion system of claim 11, whereinin the assembled state, the underside of the retaining cushion isconfigured to be coupled around the base pillow portion using the atleast one adjustable strap and the connecting mechanism.
 13. Theconvertible cushion system of claim 12, wherein the convertible cushionsystem is configured to convert from the assembled state to a retainingstate, wherein in the retaining state the retaining cushion isconfigured to couple around at least one of the following: legs of auser, a neck of the user, and a head of a user.
 14. The convertiblecushion system of claim 13, wherein in the retaining state the basepillow portion is configured to attach to the underside of the retainingcushion using the attachment mechanism at an orientation effective toallow the base pillow portion to be held between the user's legs whilethe retaining cushion is coupled around the user's legs.
 15. Theconvertible cushion system of claim 14, wherein in the retaining statethe base pillow portion is configured to attach substantially orthogonalto the retaining cushion.
 16. The convertible cushion system of claim15, further comprising at least one securing mechanism for securing anobject to a first face of the retaining cushion.
 17. The convertiblecushion system of claim 15, wherein the base pillow portion comprises afoam material.
 18. A method for using a convertible cushion system, themethod comprising the steps of: providing the convertible cushion systemcomprising: a base pillow portion configured to detachably couple with aretaining cushion in an assembled state, the base pillow portionincluding at least one surface, the base pillow portion furtherconfigured to releasably attach to an underside of the retaining cushionusing an attachment mechanism, and the retaining cushion having firstand second opposed ends and first and second opposed faces, andcomprising at least one adjustable strap having first and second opposedends, the at least one adjustable strap disposed on the first face ofthe retaining cushion and configured to secure the retaining cushionaround an object or user, and a connecting mechanism for detachablyconnecting ends of the at least one adjustable strap to create acontinuous loop, wherein the convertible cushion system furthercomprises a retaining state and in the retaining state the retainingcushion is configured to couple around at least one of the following:legs of the user, a neck of the user, and a head of a user; and usingthe convertible cushion system in connection with the user by convertingfrom the assembled state to the retaining state.
 19. The method of claim18, wherein using the convertible cushion system comprises one or moreof: arranging the base pillow portion between legs of the user such thatan inner portion of the legs contacts the base pillow portion; securingthe retaining cushion around the base pillow portion such that theunderside of retaining cushion connects with the base pillow portion;and connecting, via the connecting mechanism, the first end of the atleast one adjustable strap to the second end of the at least oneadjustable strap to form a substantially continuous loop such that thelegs of the user are secured in a desired position.
 20. The method ofclaim 19, wherein using the convertible cushion system further comprisesconverting the retaining state to the assembled state by coupling theretaining cushion around the base pillow portion using the at least oneadjustable strap and the connecting mechanism.